Naumann lab's all-optical two-photon microscope

The Naumann lab's all-optical two-photon microscope (NL-2p1) is a custom built two-photon laser microscope designed and constructed in the Naumann's lab at Duke University. It features 2 scanning paths (both of which can be used for imaging and photostimulation) with an SLM in one of the paths, 4 PMT detection channels, behavioral and tissue cameras, 3D stepper-motor driven stage for precise horizontal positioning of the sample under the microscope (for vertical positioning, the whole detection module is moved), piezo-motor positioning of the objective for fast volumetric imaging, and several experimental setups for zebrafish studies.

This website provides a detailed description of the microscope functions, components, work flows, and troubleshooting (see Table of Contents). It is meant for those who want to learn how to use, modify, and repair the microscope, as well as for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of microscope inner functioning. Also, the microscope is designed as an assembly of electro-optical-software modules. This documents serves as an example on how their usage.

#fix This microscope runs on a novel modular software framework named Module Conductor (MC), which allows us to flexibly orchestrate operation of different software modules required for microscope functioning.

The 3D model of the microscope can be viewed and downloaded: 3D Model. Note that the online version of the model is opened in a browser and doesn't require an access to Fusion 360 software. However, the experience of viewing the model online differs quite significantly from opening the model directly in Fusion 360, and we recommend the latter if possible.

A snapshot of the 3D model of the microscope.

Representative image of the GCaMP-expressing zebrafish brain acquired with the microscope.